Milling Machines; What are They and What Do They Do?

Milling machines are among the most common and useful pieces of machinery in many industries. However, they come in many variations with nuanced purposes, designs, and functionality. This guide will show you what milling machines are, what they do and how they work. We will also look at the different types of machines, giving you a clearer idea of which machine best suits your needs.

What Are Milling Machines?

Milling machines are a type of machinery for removing material from a workpiece using rotary cutters. These machines can drill, bore, and cut an array of materials. This process of removing pieces of the material in line with the tool axis is known as milling, hence the name. Milling machines come in many types and are used across various industries. 

How Do Milling Machines Work?

In many ways, milling machines are used to achieve similar results to lathes. However, unlike lathes which rotate the workpiece, milling machines hold the workpiece still using a vice or fixture. Milling machines use cylindrical tools such as drills and endmills to remove material. They are used mainly on flat surfaces though they can work with some irregular surfaces too. 

9 Types Of Milling Machines 

Milling machines come in many forms, manual or CNC, the latter meaning computer numerically controlled. CNC milling machines are computer–automated versions of manual milling machines, meaning one is automatically controlled by a computer, and the other is manually controlled. 

For a better understanding of the best CNC milling machine option for your needs or business, here is a breakdown of the nine different types. However, you can also contact our team for more advice on the best option for your requirements. 

1. Column Milling Machines 

Often used for creating car parts, a column milling machine is one of the simplest types of milling machine. They consist of five key components: the worktable, head, saddle, knee, and over arm, and they use a vertically suspended drill.

2. Turret Milling Machines

A turret machine is a versatile milling machine used to create many parts. Also known as a Bridgeport-type milling machine, these machines can be repositioned, opening a broader range of uses. 

3. C-Frame Milling Machines

C-frame milling machines are sturdy and powerful. They use a hydraulic motor and are best utilised in industrial settings. 

4. Horizontal Milling Machines

As its name suggests, horizontal milling machines are named for their position. They work by moving the bench; the workpiece is placed sideways whilst the cutting tool moves vertically. 

5. Tracer-Controlled Milling Machines

Designed to produce duplicate parts based on a master model, you can use tracer–controlled milling machines for machining grooves and contoured surfaces.

6. Bed-Type Milling Machines

The worktable of a bed–type milling machine is placed on the bed itself, as opposed to on top as with other milling machines. On a bed–type machine, the knee is omitted to allow for longitudinal movement.

7. Planer-Style Milling Machines

A planer-style milling machine is similar to a bed–type machine. However, this type of milling machine offers more milling capabilities due to the addition of cutters and heads. 

8. Gantry Milling Machines

Gantry milling machines are essential for precision engineering, creating moulds, dies and models and styling machining. These machines can often be found in the Aerospace and Power Generation industries.

9. Travelling Column Machines

Travelling column milling machines can handle larger parts and multitask. With moving, pivot and tilt elements, travelling column machines are often used in the automotive, aerospace, defence, energy and oil industries.

Choosing the Right Milling Machine for your Requirements

Though they come in various forms, the core purpose of milling machines remains the same. Nonetheless, it is important to get the right machine for the job. With this guide, we hope we have provided you with a better understanding of milling machines and how each can vary. 

When choosing milling machines, reference this guide to determine better which machines can work for you.

Explore our collection of milling machines available at DTS UK, and don’t hesitate to contact us today for further information and advice. If you are unsure if a milling machine is the right piece of equipment for your site or needs, we will help you make an informed decision. 

Additionally, suppose you have purchased a milling machine and need advice on repairs, services and maintenance. In that case, we can also help you with that. Our team is trained in milling machines’ repair and service. We offer one-off repairs and regular maintenance to keep your machinery working perfectly. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

If you’re still unsure, look for more help and advice in the answers to our most frequently asked questions on milling machines. Alternatively, look for expert advice from our team on hand to help you today and get in touch. 

What is a milling machine used for?

A milling machine is used to rough, cut or drill strong, solid materials, usually metal, through the milling process. This means removing chips of material through a high-speed rotation and the movement of the axis. Depending on your milling machine type, the axis can be either the element or the mechanism. 

Parts cut by a milling machine are usually exact and are produced by a milling machine to ensure uniformity across the size and shape of numerous parts. 

Who Are Milling Machines For?

As a leading machine for cutting metal, milling machines are widely used for making parts within the automotive and aerospace industries. As previously mentioned, milling machines are used to cut parts precisely. So these machines are heavily used by industries where precision is of utmost importance. 

What is the difference between a lathe and a milling machine?

Both lathe and milling machines are essential equipment in the manufacturing industry. Both use a cutting tool to remove material in the form of chips. However, there is a key difference in the process. 

A lathe machine will rotate the workpiece against the cutting machine to make the cuts. In contrast, a milling machine will keep the workpiece stationary and instead rotate a multi-bladed cutting tool against it. 

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